Saluting a few more of the season’s stars

The NBA All-Star break arrived almost at the midpoint of the 66-game schedule, a convenient stopping point to consider those who are in the lead for the postseason awards. Express-News NBA beat writer Mike Monroe delivers his choices:

COACH OF THE YEAR

Gregg Popovich, Spurs: Before the season began, nobody expected the Spurs would have the second-best record in the Western Conference, and that was before Manu Ginobili broke a bone in his left hand and later strained an oblique muscle. Popovich has given his youngest lineup in years the confidence to believe it can succeed, yet has also kept a wary eye on Tim Duncan’s playing time.

Other candidates:

• Rick Adelman, Timberwolves

• Kevin McHale, Rockets

• Erik Spoelstra, Heat

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Kyrie Irving, Cavaliers: For such a young player, especially one with such limited college experience, Irving has shown an amazing ability to score, including in crunch time.

Other candidates:

• Ricky Rubio, Timberwolves

• Kemba Walker, Bobcats

• Norris Cole, Heat

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER

Jeremy Lin, Knicks: The easiest selection of any of the awards, even if the sample size isn’t as large as we’d like. An undrafted player who has become a productive star fits this award perfectly.

Other candidates:

• Tiago Splitter, Spurs

• Ryan Anderson, Magic

• Paul George, Pacers

SIXTH MAN AWARD

James Harden, Thunder: Like most recent winners of this award, he plays starter minutes, especially in crunch time. It’s not uncommon for him to play all 12 minutes of fourth quarters.

Other candidates:

• Jason Terry, Mavericks

• Lou Williams, 76ers

• Matt Bonner, Spurs

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Serge Ibaka, Thunder: The league leader in blocked shots has changed the Thunder’s defensive dynamic, making the middle no-man’s land for opposing team’s slashers and drivers.